The topic of bail can be confusing—particularly when you are under stress and trying to bail out a loved one. There are rare circumstances when a defense attorney might actually want your loved one to stay in jail until the Arraignment but, for most cases, getting bailed out prior to Arraignment is preferred. To learn about the specifics of bail in Thurston County, including cases filed in the City of Lacey or the City of Olympia, check out our video below.
If you plan to hire private defense, hire your lawyer and then ask what is the preferred protocol based on the specific facts of the case. If you are planning to use public defense, unfortunately, you will not be able to discuss this option in advance because public defenders are to assigned until Arraignment or shortly thereafter (assuming you financially qualify).
Where Do I Go To Post Bail?
If you are posting cash bail during courthouse business hours, you will go to the Clerk’s office. If the criminal charge is a misdemeanor or, in the case of a DUI, a gross misdemeanor, you will go to the District Court Clerk’s office. If the criminal charge is a felony, you post bail at the Superior Court Clerk’s office.
If you want to bail out a loved after hours, you must go to the Thurston County Corrections Facility at 3491 Ferguson St SW, Tumwater, WA.
Check out our video on location at the Thurston County Corrections Facility:
After Hours Bail
If you are planning to post bail after courthouse hours, be aware that you will be waiting. The jail begins dinner service around 4:30 and is also trying to process daily court orders for release of defendants on personal recognizance. Those being PR’d will be processed and released after dinner and head counts are performed, typically around 6:00 pm.
The “after hours” time to go is around 7:00 or 8:00 pm. The court orders can take several hours and, since court can run late, it may take jail staff until 8:00 p.m. to process the court ordered releases. So, if you go to the bail window after that time, you have the best chance for a shorter wait period. Otherwise, if you go near the dinner service hour, you could be waiting 3 hours for your loved one to be released.
Cash Bail or Bail Company?
This will really depend on the defendant’s finances. Check out our other blogs and videos on bail to get a better understanding on this topic. Additionally, we have an e-book available for review if you would like to know more about bail in general.
If you or a loved one is facing a DUI or other misdemeanor in Thurston County, City of Tumwater, City of Olympia, or City of Lacey, give our office a call. We are here 7 days a week to help. (360) 792-1000
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Whether you choose to handle your case alone or engage the Witt Law Group, being informed and prepared is essential. Early involvement of an attorney can significantly impact your chances of a fair recovery, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle negotiations with insurance adjusters to secure fair compensation for your injuries.